Mental Health
Statistics
How to Help
Common Myths
Suicide Prevention Resources
100

What is the most common mental health disorder that people struggling with suicidal thoughts may have?

Depression

100

According to the World Health Organization, approximately how many people die by suicide each year globally?

800,000 people

100

What should you do if someone tells you they are thinking about suicide?

Listen and take them seriously and encourage them to get professional help.

100

True or False: People who talk about suicide are just seeking attention.

False – Talking about suicide can be a cry for help, and it should always be taken seriously.

100

Natonal Suicide Prevention Lifeline

(HNT: Look at your ID)

1-800-273-8255

200

What term is used for a person experiencing feelings of hopelessness, sadness, and disinterest in daily activities?

Depressive episode

200

Which age group has the highest suicide rates worldwide?

Middle-aged adults (ages 45-59)

200

What is one resource you can suggest to someone in immediate danger of suicide?

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (1-800-273-TALK or text 988)

200

True or False: Asking someone if they are thinking about suicide will make them more likely to go through with it.

False – Asking can help prevent suicide and shows that you care.

200

Name the text-based service available 24/7 in the U.S. that connects people in crisis with trained counselors.

Crisis Text Line

300

Which type of therapy is most often recommended to people struggling with suicidal thoughts?

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

300

In the U.S., what percentage of people who attempt suicide do not die?
(HINT: its more than you think)

More than 90%

300

When you suspect someone may be suicidal, what’s one direct question you can ask to help?

“Are you thinking about harming yourself?”

300

Which of these is a myth about suicide?

A) People who are suicidal will always show warning signs.
B) Suicide is often impulsive with no warning signs.
C) Suicide can be prevented if people have strong support.
D) Suicidal thoughts always last a long time.

A) People who are suicidal will always show warning signs.

300

What is the main goal of safety planning in suicide prevention?
A) To predict if someone will attempt suicide
B) To create a personalized plan with coping strategies and support contacts
C) To diagnose mental illness
D) To provide medication to the person

B) To create a personalized plan with coping strategies and support contacts

400

True or False: Mental health disorders are the sole cause of suicide.

False – Mental health struggles are a risk factor, but other factors like trauma, substance abuse, and isolation play a role in it too

400

What is the global suicide rate per 100,000 people?

10.5 per 100,000 people

400

True or False: It's helpful to offer solutions to someone struggling with suicidal thoughts right away.

False – It’s better to listen and be supportive, rather than trying to "fix" the problem immediately.

400

True or False: If someone seems "too happy" after a period of depression, it might mean they’ve made a decision to end their life.

True – This could be a sign they’ve made a decision and feel a sense of relief, but it can also be a warning sign of risk.

400

The Crisis Text Line number is... and what would you text to that number?

(HINT: Look at your ID)

741741... Home

500

Which is NOT a common symptom of someone at risk of suicide?
A) Social withdrawal
B) Giving away possessions
C) Increased appetite
D) Sudden calmness after a period of depression

C) Increased appetite

500

What is the estimated ratio of men to women who die by suicide globally?

Men are about 3 times more likely to die by suicide than women.

500

Which of the following is an example of a safety plan element you should help someone create?

A) A list of people to call when feeling distressed
B) A specific time to see a therapist
C) A journal of thoughts
D) A vacation destination

A) A list of people to call when feeling distressed

500

Many people believe that once someone has been suicidal and received treatment, they are no longer at risk. Is this true or false and WHY?

False because suicide risk can fluctuate over time, and someone may experience suicidal thoughts or behaviors again even after treatment

500

When someone is feeling suicidal, why might it be helpful for them to create a list of people they trust and activities that help them feel calm?

To provide a plan of support and coping strategies they can use during a crisis to stay safe and reduce feelings of distress